Opel's with the addition of two new models.
Topping the range is a formidable new Bertone styled coupe set to
re-establish Opel in the performance stakes, while the family
oriented buyer now once again has an estate model to choose from badged
(as in years gone by) the Caravan.
 Astra Coupe'
Not only is the Coupe' a looker, it's 140 kW intercooled Ecotec Z20LET four cylinder
turbo-charged engine which winds out 250 Nm of torque will dispatch it from
rest to 100 km/h in 7,5 seconds, and propel it to a top speed of 245 km/h.
According to Opel, the revised Ecotec engine features an innovative integral turbo charger system in which the exhaust manifold and turbo housing are combined, together with a wastegate and rotary
valve, in a single module weighing 7,1kg, only about 1,3kg more than the
manifold attached to the naturally aspirated engine. Aside from its compact
size and low weight, it shortens the gas flow paths between the exhaust ports and the
turbine, reducing heat losses and improving the efficiency of the turbo.
A computerized engine management system controls turbo boost pressure (limited
to a maximum of 1,84), drive by wire accelerator inputs; the mixture as indicated by the hot-film air mass meter; the sequential fuel injection, and the engine ignition timing through individual-coil direct ignition. A cylinder selective engine knock control is also
taken care by the computer.
Safety features include active head restraints at the front, Opels patented "Pedal Release System", and front and side airbags for front seat occupants. Seatbelt pre-tensioners work in concert with the airbags and side impact beams add strength to the doors.
Interior features include an aluminium-look gear knob and sill plates, a handbrake lever with a soft-feel surface and two-colour leather trimmed steering wheel that compliments the overall interior feel. Sports seats with leather trim and a full range of adjustments, air conditioning, audio system with CD player, as well as an on-board computer, cruise control and anti-theft alarm and transponder key anti-theft protection are all included in the standard equipment list. Power assisted steering is of the electro-hydraulic type and side mirrors and windows are power operated.
Superior handling is courtesy of an extremely stiff body and the DSA (Dynamic Safety) sports chassis design. Spring and shock absorber settings are firmer than the Astra norm, and track at the front and rear is 10mm wider. The front discs are a healthy 308mm in diameter.
An Electronic Stability Program (ESP) integrates and coordinates the ABS, electronic braking-pressure distribution (EBD) and traction control systems. The ESP uses wheel speed sensors as well as other inputs for steering angle, yaw rate, and lateral acceleration, to identify the driver's desired direction of travel and compare that to the cars actual movement. If the sensors register a deviation from the projected direction the system brings the car back onto the correct course by applying the brakes at individual wheels.
 Astra Caravan
The Astra Caravan, now a fully imported model, is powered by Opel's
latest generation 1.8 litre Ecotec Z18XE1 twin overhead camshaft 16-valve engine mated to a 5-speed transmission.
Power is rated at 92 kW/170 Nm, and cuts a fine balance between performance and economy. The 0-100 km sprint time is
claimed to come up in 10 seconds with the top speed peaking out at 200 km/h. Average fuel
consumption, according to Opel's claims is a miserly 8 litres per 100 kilometers
and 6,2 litre per 100 km in highway driving.
Standard features include electro-hydraulic power steering and ABS brakes (with discs all round), air conditioning with pollen filter, a front loading radio/CD combination, electric side windows, electric side mirrors, interior light delay, drinks holders for both front and rear passengers,
in jacquard cloth  upholstery, and leather-covered steering wheel, which incidentally is also adjustable for both height and reach.
Safety features include airbags for driver and passenger, seat belt pre-tensioners,
side impact beams in the doors, and a pedal box that retracts to prevent foot injuries in a collision.
A transponder key immobilizer system with remote central locking and vehicle alarm
takes care of vehicle security
Load space is generous. The 60:40 split rear seat can be folded forward to provide increased carrying
capacity which starts out at 480 litres and can be trebled to 1500 litres. A removable cover is provided to keep luggage from prying
eyes and a cargo restraining net is provided.
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